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Using the brakes correctly under adverse conditions
is the hardest – and yet the most critical - skill to
master for a rider. Braking is one of the most difficult
and dangerous moments when riding a two wheeled
motorcycle: the possibility of falling or having an
accident during this difficult moment is statistically
higher than any other moment. A locked front wheel
leads to loss of traction and stability, resulting in loss
of control.
The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) has been
developed to enable riders to use the motorcycle
braking force to the fullest possible amount in
emergency braking or under poor pavement or
adverse weather conditions. ABS is an electro-
hydraulic device that controls the pressure in the
brake circuit when the control unit, by processing
information from wheel sensors, determines that one
or both wheels are about to lock up. In this case,
pressure decrease in the brake circuit allows the
wheel to carry on turning, thereby preserving grip.
After that, the control unit restores the pressure in the
brake circuit, to resume the braking action. This cycle
is repeated many times until the problem is
completely eliminated. Normally, the rider will
perceive ABS operation as a harder feel or a pulsation
of the brake lever and pedal.
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The front and rear brakes use separate control
systems.
If desired, the system can be deactivated from the
instrument panel, setting the level to OFF within the
Riding Mode for which you wish to disable it.
Warning
Using the two brake controls separately
reduces the motorcycle braking power.
A harsh or sudden use of the brake controls with ABS
system may cause rear wheel lift-up and lose control
of the motorcycle.
When riding in the rain or on slippery surfaces,
braking will become less effective. Always use the
brakes very gently and carefully when riding under
these conditions. Any sudden manoeuvres may lead
to loss of control.
When tackling long, high-gradient downhill road
tracts, shift down gears to use engine braking. Apply
one brake at a time and use brakes sparingly. Keeping
the brakes applied all the time would cause the
friction material to overheat and reduce braking
power dangerously.
When tackling long, high-gradient downhill road
tracts, shift down gears to use engine braking. Apply
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